|
Description
Bonaire is a small island located in the southern
Caribbean known for its pioneering role in the
preservation of nature, in particular the preservation
of the marine environment, and for its excellent
scuba diving, snorkeling, and windsurfing, among
other things. Kayak in the mangroves, the gentle
bay or venture out into the open ocean for a real
challenge. Enjoy the nature of the land cycling
or mountain biking.
There are a number of reasons people visit our
island. First timers generally have heard about
the climate, the water, the sun and what there
is to do. When asked, repeat visitors generally
say that they  did
not have enough time to do all they wanted to
on their first visit. If it is the third or fourth
trip, the answer is basically the same but with
this addition "It is the warmth and friendliness
of the people" that keeps visitors returning
year after year.
When visiting, spend time touring the island.
You'll see salt flats, a beautiful "pink
beach", an old lighthouse, slave huts, Washington
National Park, a wildlife preserve and great spot
for seeing animal species unique to Bonaire, pink
flamingos, beautiful Parroquets, lorets, big blue
lizards and three foot iguanas. Lac Bay, on the
windward side of the island, has some of the best
windsurfing in the world.
History
Bonaire's history is deeply rooted in its inhabitants
and their culture. The tranquil beauty of the island
is reflected in the faces of her people. From the
first inhabitants, the Caiquetios (a branch of the
Arawak Indians) who sailed from the coast of Venezuela
almost 1000 years ago, to the many cultures now
living and working in Bonaire today, the island
has a distinct character that is all its own.
Tourism was born when the island government constructed
the first ship's pier in the harbor. It allowed
cruise ships to tie up alongside the wharf and discharge
passengers. It also made it easier to bring in goods
and supplies for the island's residents. Hotels
began to spring up and cater to the early visitors
who enjoyed the tranquility of Bonaire. In 1943,
the construction of a modern airport south of Kralendijk
made it even easier for tourists to reach the island.
|
